Head Barman

SUMMARY:
A luxury private game reserve is seeking an experienced and guest-focused HEAD BARMAN to join their food and beverage team.

POSITION INFO:
This is a senior bar role for a polished, skilled hospitality professional who takes pride in delivering exceptional beverage service, leading a small bar team, and contributing to a world-class guest experience in a luxury lodge environment. The successful candidate will combine strong mixology and beverage knowledge with confident team leadership and solid stock management skills. Core Criteria: Grade 12 or equivalent advantageous Proven bartending experience within a luxury hospitality environment preferred Strong knowledge of beverages, cocktails, wine, and bar service Mixology training and stock control experience advantageous Strong leadership, supervisory, and team management abilities Excellent guest service and communication skills Strong organisation, administration, and stock control abilities Financial awareness and ability to support cost control Well-presented and professional in appearance at all times Flexible and willing to work shift hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays Core Responsibilities: Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to luxury lodge standards across all service periods Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and presentation of all bar areas, equipment, and service stations Provide personalised, professional, and attentive beverage service to enhance the guest experience Engage with guests warmly while efficiently managing requests and concerns Support the development of beverage menus and signature cocktail offerings Manage beverage stock, inventory control, and ordering processes Conduct stock takes, minimise wastage, and maintain accurate records Ensure correct storage and rotation of all beverages at all times Monitor costs and support achievement of departmental financial targets Support, motivate, coach, and train bar staff to maintain high service and beverage knowledge standards Ensure compliance with grooming, hygiene, and operational standards across the bar team Assist with scheduling and staff performance management Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, health, and liquor regulations Promote responsible service of alcohol at all times Collaborate with all departments to ensure seamless guest experiences This is a live-in role